Flights from Brisbane (BNE) to Beijing (BJS)

About Beijing

Discover Beijing

Why visit Beijing?
Beijing blends grand imperial history with a fast-paced modern cityscape. You will see wide boulevards, landscaped parks, and striking landmarks as centuries-old architecture stands alongside glass towers.

What to expect
The city is built on a generous scale, with broad avenues, distinct ring roads, and large public squares. Neighbourhoods range from restored courtyard lanes and creative districts to bustling commercial centres filled with offices, hotels, and dining spots.

Plan your trip
Beijing is a natural starting point for exploring northern China, with efficient rail and air links to other major cities and scenic regions. Allow time for both headline sights and quieter streets to appreciate the citys rhythm.

Top sights in Beijing

Great Wall at Mutianyu or Badaling

Walk along restored ramparts, take in sweeping valley views, and appreciate the scale of the Great Wall at easily accessible sections near the city.

Forbidden City

Explore vast courtyards, ornate halls, and intricate roofs in this former imperial palace complex at the heart of Beijing.

Tiananmen Square

Stroll across one of the worlds largest city squares, framed by monumental buildings and wide open spaces.

Summer Palace

Wander lakeside paths, pavilions, and covered walkways in an expansive royal garden on the edge of Beijing.

798 Art District

Discover galleries, design shops, and street installations in a former factory zone turned creative neighbourhood.

Beihai and Houhai Lakes

Enjoy a relaxed walk or boat ride around central lakes, then pause at cafés and teahouses along the water.

Wangfujing

Visit a central shopping street known for department stores, boutiques, and busy side alleys.

Temple of Heaven Park

Admire impressive historic architecture set in a vast park popular for walking and open-air activities.

Experience Beijings everyday rhythm

Getting around
The Beijing Subway is the most efficient way to cover longer distances, connecting major sights, business districts, and railway stations. Taxis and app-based rides are useful for door-to-door journeys, while walking is ideal within historic quarters and compact central neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture
In older residential lanes, or hutongs, you will see traditional courtyard homes alongside cafés and small studios. Wider avenues showcase Beijings role as a capital city, with cultural venues, museums, and performance spaces that stay active into the evening. Green spaces and public squares are well used and give a sense of local routine.

Where to unwind
Large parks such as the Summer Palace area and city lakes provide calm places to walk, sit by the water, or watch boats glide past. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter and more comfortable for outdoor time, especially in the warmer months. In winter, crisp clear days offer a different, atmospheric side to the city.

A taste of Beijing

Street food & local specialties
Beijing is known for hearty northern flavours and a variety of noodles, dumplings, and savoury snacks. Older neighbourhoods and traditional food streets are good places to sample classic dishes and simple, satisfying bites.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping centres and business districts gather many casual restaurants under one roof, making it easy to try different regional cuisines in a single area. Menus often feature sharing plates, so you can order several dishes for the table and experience a wider range of flavours.

Signature & scenic dining
For a special evening, look for restaurants with views of the city skyline, lakes, or restored courtyard spaces. Some venues combine modern interiors with historic surroundings, creating a memorable backdrop for both business dinners and relaxed celebrations.

Retail therapy in Beijing

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Central Beijing has large malls that bring together international brands, local designers, cinemas, and casual dining. These multi-level centres often stay open into the evening, making them convenient for shopping after a day of sightseeing or meetings.

Markets & local crafts
Smaller markets and side streets are good places to look for handicrafts, design items, and distinctive souvenirs. Districts such as the 798 Art area, Nanluoguxiang, and Panjiayuan are known for creative studios, stalls, and specialty shops.

Evening retail scene
After dark, major shopping streets are illuminated with bright signage and busy storefronts. Many malls and pedestrian areas remain lively into the late evening, with easy connections by subway or taxi so you can return to your hotel comfortably.

Best time to visit Beijing

Spring (chun) – March to May, shoulder season
Spring in Beijing gradually warms from around 10°C–22°C (50°F–72°F), with lengthening days and blossoming trees in parks and along streets. It is a pleasant time for walking tours and excursions to the Great Wall, with comfortable temperatures and generally moderate visitor numbers.

Summer (xia tian) – June to August, peak season
Summer brings warm to hot weather, often 25°C–32°C (77°F–90°F), with higher humidity and some rainfall. Long daylight hours are ideal for full sightseeing days and evening strolls around the lakes, and many cultural events, exhibitions, and performances run during this busy season.

Autumn and winter (qiu tian & dong tian) – September to February, low season
Autumn is typically clear and mild, around 10°C–20°C (50°F–68°F), with crisp air and colourful foliage in parks and hill areas. Winters can be cold, often below 0°C to 5°C (32°F–41°F), but the dry air, occasional snow, and fewer crowds give major sights a calm, atmospheric feel.

Frequently Asked Questions